𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝𝐬 𝐇𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐥, 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐨𝐰𝐧, 𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟏𝟐 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒

His Excellency, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, has officially launched Sierra Leone’s 5th Generation Justice Sector Reform Strategy, a transformative initiative designed to foster a justice system that serves all citizens equitably.

During the event, President Bio expressed his delight, calling the launch a pivotal moment in the country’s ongoing quest for justice. “This is not just a milestone; it is a significant leap towards a more just and equitable nation,” he emphasized, reaffirming his government’s steadfast commitment to upholding the rule of law, safeguarding human rights, and ensuring justice for all Sierra Leoneans. “This is not merely a promise but a guiding principle that will shape our actions,” the President stated.

He reiterated that justice is a foundational element of national stability and development. “A fair and accessible justice system is the bedrock upon which we build trust in our institutions, foster social cohesion, and ensure that every citizen, regardless of their background, enjoys equal protection under the law,” President Bio remarked.

Reflecting on the challenges faced by the justice sector, he acknowledged the historical issues of limited resources, systemic inefficiencies, and a backlog of cases that have prevented many citizens from experiencing timely and fair justice. These challenges underscore the urgent need for comprehensive reform, and the launch of this strategy represents a proactive approach to addressing those obstacles.

The President highlighted the inclusivity embedded in the strategy, which has resulted from extensive consultations with diverse stakeholders. “For our justice system to be truly effective, it must be accessible to all, regardless of gender, socioeconomic status, or geographic location,” he asserted. He pledged his government’s commitment to dismantling barriers that have historically hindered marginalized communities from accessing justice, ensuring that legal processes are equitable and fair.

“With this launch today, my government provides a solid framework for implementing the reforms that began when I assumed office in 2018,” he concluded.

Madam Seraphine Wakana, the United Nations Resident Coordinator, praised the timely launch, especially as the country strives for peace and stability in alignment with the government’s “Big Five Game Changers” initiative. She reiterated the UN’s unwavering support for Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plans (2024–2030).

The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohamed Lamin Tarawalley, Esq., while presenting the strategy, noted that it emerged from nationwide consultations prompted by the President’s directives. He stated that the strategy aims to enhance justice service delivery for all citizens.

The Attorney General emphasized the need to strengthen the capacity to improve service delivery and review procedural aspects of the justice sector. “It is time for us to act together—lawmakers, civil society, partners, and other relevant actors—for fair justice for all Sierra Leoneans,” he urged.

Ibrahim Tommy, a civil society representative, commended the government for the strategy’s comprehensive approach, which he said was informed by nationwide consultations. He applauded the administration for increasing the number of judges and magistrates, improving the salary structure, and ensuring the presence of magistrates in all districts.

Tommy also recognized President Bio’s leadership in spearheading reforms that confront challenges in the justice sector and called for genuine collaboration in implementing the strategy, emphasizing the importance of continued investment in local courts.

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